OSAKA, Japan: Sarawak took centre stage at the Osaka Expo 2025 as the state launched a cultural and tourism showcase during the ongoing Sarawak Week at the Malaysia Pavilion, held from August 4 to 10.
The visit, led by Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, aimed to raise Sarawak’s international profile through the promotion of its diverse cultural heritage, vibrant tourism sector, and the Sarawak-Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) programme.
He was accompanied by Deputy Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; Deputy Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister, Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Datuk Sherrina Hussaini, as well as senior representatives from Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak).
Throughout the week, the Malaysia Pavilion hosted a series of cultural performances and demonstrations, including a live showcase of ‘buri’ weaving, a traditional Iban craft, and ‘sape’ performances, offering visitors an immersive experience of Sarawak’s indigenous identity.
A key focus of the state’s presence at the expo was the promotion of the S-MM2H programme, which allows eligible foreign nationals to reside in Sarawak on a long-term basis.
Positioned as a safe, affordable and multicultural destination, Sarawak is being actively promoted as a second home for international residents and retirees.
Aside from engagements at the Malaysia Pavilion, the delegation also visited pavilions hosted by Indonesia, Germany and Saudi Arabia.
These visits were part of efforts to build cultural and tourism linkages while exploring new avenues for collaboration.
The ministry emphasised that Sarawak’s participation reflects its commitment to sustainable tourism, creative industry growth, and international cultural exchange.
The expo served as a timely platform to connect with the global community and reinforce Sarawak’s openness to welcoming tourists, cultural partners, and long-term residents.
